The philosophical question of why evil and suffering exist in a world created by an all-powerful and benevolent deity has been debated for centuries and remains a complex and multifaceted issue. The concept of free will and its relation to the existence of evil is a common aspect of this debate.
The argument you mentioned suggests that God allows evil to exist because giving humans free will is seen as an ultimate good. The idea is that true love, virtue, and moral responsibility can only exist if individuals have the freedom to choose between good and evil. In this context, humans have the freedom to sin, but they also have the freedom to choose good, thereby allowing for the possibility of genuine love, compassion, and moral growth.
However, your question about freedom from being harmed by sinners highlights the problem of how one person's actions can negatively affect others, even if they themselves have the free will to make those choices. This raises the issue of innocent suffering, where people who have not committed any wrongs can still experience the consequences of other people's sinful or harmful actions.
One possible explanation is that this world is seen as a testing ground or a place of growth, where individuals face challenges and learn important lessons through their experiences. It is believed that facing the consequences of others' actions can build resilience, empathy, and compassion in individuals who may not be directly responsible for the harm they endure. This perspective is often tied to religious beliefs that emphasize personal growth, spiritual development, and the notion of a greater plan beyond our current existence.
It's important to acknowledge that these are complex theological and philosophical questions, and there isn't a single answer that satisfies everyone. Different religions, spiritual beliefs, and philosophical traditions have various interpretations and explanations for the coexistence of free will, evil, and suffering in the world. Some individuals find comfort and meaning in their beliefs, while others may struggle with these concepts and continue to explore different perspectives throughout their lives.
Ultimately, how one reconciles the existence of evil, suffering, and free will with the idea of a benevolent and all-powerful deity can be deeply personal and subjective, shaped by one's experiences, cultural background, and individual beliefs.